World Cup 2010 Predictions: Honduras Face Tough Draw in Group H

Along with New Zealand and North Korea, the Hondurans are expected to play the role of whipping boys in South Africa in what is only their second World Cup appearance.

Under coach Reinaldo Rueda, the Honduran team have been transformed in the past couple of years. The progress made with their third place finish in the 2001 Copa America had not been capitalized upon in the intervening period until now. 

A 1-0 victory over El Salvador last October cemented Los Catrachos' place in the World Cup finals, ousting the more fancied perennial qualifiers Costa Rica in the process. A 4-0 home win over the Ticos went a long way toward overcoming their rivals on goal difference.

Preparation since then has not been ideal, however, as the small Central American country have not won any of their last five friendlies, most recently a 3-0 loss to Romania in Austria that followed two draws with Belarus and Azerbaijan.

WORLD CUP HISTORY

Their one appearance thus far, at Spain '82, was by no means a disaster. The Honduran team drew their first two games with Northern Ireland and Spain before losing to Yugoslavia by the single goal.

SCHEDULE: Group H

Chile: June 16, Nelspruit

Switzerland: June 21, Johannesburg

Spain: June 25, Bloemfontein

The world's 38th-ranked team take on three teams in red this summer in what is a tough draw for the Central Americans. Spain are the tournament favourites, Switzerland are a well-oiled machine under Ottmar Hitzfeld, and Marcelo Bielsa's Chile are a match for any team on their day.

With all three of their opponents in good form and containing serious aspirations, Group H will be a tough slog for the Hondurans, who will be targeting their first two games as areas where points may be acquired.

KEY PLAYERS

Carlos Pavon has picked up 100 caps in the last 17 years, scoring 57 goals in the process. His Honduran goal-scoring record is under no threat of being eclipsed by any of the current squad. Even at the age of 36, the former Napoli and Real Valladolid striker is depended on to score goals.

One would think that responsibility had fallen upon David Suazo in recent years, but unfortunately he has failed to take up the mantle. The former Serie A overseas player of the year has only recorded 16 goals in his 52 caps.

His move from Cagliari to Internazionale in 2007 hasn't worked out as hoped, with loan spells at Benfica and Genoa occupying the past two years. His eight years in Sardinia represent the highlight of the 30-year-old's career thus far.

Wilson Palacios has overtaken Suazo as Honduras's biggest star in the past two years. Dynamic performances for Wigan Athletic earned the former Olimpia midfielder a move to Tottenham in January 2009. His intensity has helped the club reach the Champions League qualifying rounds and break the Big Four monopoly on the Premier League.

ONE TO WATCH: Maynor Figueroa

The Wigan full back will provide crosses, pace, and free kicks. Ultimately, he could be central to anything positive his team produce.

BEST CASE SCENARIO...

Qualification for the second round is not completely out of the question, but considering their opposition, getting the necessary four points is unlikely.

WORST CASE SCENARIO...

Three defeats, which is a distinct possibility.

PREDICTION

An early exit, but not an embarrassing one.